the essential pre-vacation beauty routine

Buongiorno from the Amalfi Coast! I’m beyond excited to be spending the next week in Italy and while I held off packing until the day before, beauty prep for the vacation naturally began several weeks before. From food to face masks to fake tanning, this is my perfect pre-vacation beauty routine.

Three Weeks Out
There are two treatments you must do ahead of time. A detoxing face mask (I love the Caudalie Purifying Mask) will purge skin of impurities which can lead to breakouts, so this gives it time to heal before the trip. After winter, this foot peel mask will get feet sandal-ready in a couple of weeks – a couple of weeks of pretty gross peeling, to be frank.

Two Weeks Out
Exfoliate two times per week in the shower to slough off dry skin. I’ve been using these little exfoliating cubes that make it super easy. Immediately after you turn the water off is the best time to apply body cream to lock in moisture. Or to fast-track your vacation glow, use this in-shower gradual tanning lotion to both hydrate and build a hint of color.

One Week Out
Obviously bloating is the last thing you want before slipping into sundresses or a bikini so think beauty from the inside out. Avoid inflammatory foods like salt, sugar, dairy, fried food and alcohol. Be sure to drink those recommended 8-10 glasses of water a day. Get a few good workouts in – I always love a hot yoga class to make my skin glow.

Two Days Out
Time for a manicure and pedicure. I tend to limit gel manicures to only before I travel because too many in a row will make my nails paper-thin but I need to know my polish isn’t going to chip while I’m away.

In Flight
A good in-flight beauty routine will ensure a long flight doesn’t undo all your prep. Mine begins with hand sanitizer and a couple of face wipes – one for the head and arm rests, one for my face and neck. I then apply my Volition Jetset & Protect mask followed by lip balm and hand cream – the Weleda Skin Food works wonders. I always purchase a couple of bottles of water before boarding. Try to drink 8 ounces of water every hour you’re in the air, both to stay hydrated and to ensure you get up and walk around every so often.